A man arrested on suspicion of the murder of former imam Jalal Uddin in Rochdale has been released on police bail.

The man, 21, was arrested on Monday alongside a 17-year-old boy after murder squad detectives executed a warrant at an address on Ramsey Street, Rochdale.

Both were held on suspicion of murder and have now been bailed until April 20. Police said investigations were continuing.

Mr Uddin, 64, a former imam at the Jalalia Jaame Mosque on Trafalgar Street, Rochdale , died after he was found with a serious head injury in a children’s playground on South Street, Wardleworth, on February 18.

Police believe he was attacked as he walked home from having diner at a friend’s house. He was taking a short cut through the playground.

A Vauxhall Astra was also seized as the arrests were made. Police say there’s no evidence to suggest it was a ‘hate incident’.

Det Chief Insp Terry Crompton said: “It has been just over a week since this tragic incident occurred and a significant amount of work has been done to find those responsible.

“Our investigation is continuing and we remain committed as ever to finding out the circumstances surrounding what happened to Jalal and I would like to thank the community for their patience and support whilst we carry out our enquiries.

“We are continuing to appeal for witnesses who may have been in the South Street area at the time of the attack and I would urge anybody with information to please contact police.”